DC's M-Street dining

by TYSON LOWRIE  September 2013

Critics aren’t always kind to the American capital’s food scene; the verdict being under-creative and overpriced, the product of expense accounts run amok. That might be a tad harsh though, and the tourist traps are easy to avoid, especially if you get out of downtown. Here are three affordable options on or near Georgetown’s M Street.

Pizzeria Paradiso

Pizzeria Paradiso (3282 M Street Northwest; tel: 202-337-1245; eatyourpizza.com) is a Georgetown institution that serves up personal pizzas starting from just US$11. They have all the classics, but you can also opt for less common toppings like potato, egg and bottarga (cured roe pouch.) They also have 16 beers on tap and over 100 bottled varieties, so you can find the perfect pairing for that roe pouch.

Das

Ethiopian is probably the ethnic cuisine most associated with DC, and Das (1201 28th Street Northwest; tel: 202-333-4710; dasethiopian.com) is considered to be the best in Georgetown. Try staples like Beef Koy Wot, simmered in Ethiopian red-pepper sauce, or order the popular vegetarian sampler platter, containing all their meat-free entrees.

Clyde’s

Located at the western end of M Street, Clyde’s (3236 M Street Northwest; tel: 202-333-9180; clydes.com/georgetown) was founded in 1963, making it one of the neighbourhood’s oldest establishments. The inviting, oak-filled décor is complimented by traditional saloon fare made with local, quality ingredients. A kids’ menu is available as well.

This article was accurate when it was published. Please confirm rates and details directly with the companies in question.